Good Hedge Plants - Knowledgebase Question

I am moving to Carbondale, Illinois and I have a house with about a 54' deep back yard. I am looking for a screen plant to grows pretty rapidly for along the fence. Probably want it to be at least 12 foot high. Does not neccesarily have to be evergreen, but would prefer it. What kinds of plants would you suggest???

To some extent your choice will depend on the soil conditions (wet, dry, average) and amount of sunlight hitting the hedge as well as wind, especially winter wind. You might consider upright junipers, arborvitaes, yews (left untrimmed)or deciduous shrubs such as lilac. Your local county extension and professional nursery staff in Illinois should be able to help you analyze the growing conditions where you want to plant the hedge and offer more specific suggestions. Also, you might find that you can screen a patio or window for example by using an island planting of shrubs set closer to your house or area you wish to screen. This usually provides effective screening faster than waiting for a perimeter hedge to grow. Good luck with your move!